We like it because it’s one of those fabulous Rhône-style blends that hasn’t been completely Parkerized. Yes, there’s fruit and plenty of it — but it’s less of a Sweet Cloying Diva and more of a Subtle Spicy Minx with a leather whip. And what could be better with a wine that rhymes and pairs with Duck. Works well with barbecue pork and spicy Asian foods as well. And I like to pair it just with my glass as well!
Continue readingMore TagAuthor: Amy Corron Power
A licensed attorney, Amy is a wine-lover, foodie, photographer, political junkie and award-winning author who writes about Wine, Food, Beer & Spirits. As Managing Editor & Tasting Director for Another Wine Blog, she travels all over the world's wine regions to share her experiences with her readers and legions of twitter, Instagram and Facebook friends and fans. Amy holds certifications through the International Sommelier Guild, and is also certified, with honors, as a California Wine Appellation Specialist (CWAS). She is a member of the Guild of Sommeliers, The Wine & Food Foundation of Texas and regularly attends Houston Sommelier Association events.
Amy is also a contributor to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series of books, and was most recently published in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Power of Gratitude.
Another Wine Byte 12: Wrap It Up, I’ll Take It
When it comes to wine, it’s not just the “thought” that counts. In fact, if you don’t know that much about wine, perhaps a wine-related gift, rather than a bottle of wine, would be a much better choice. But there are other considerations when giving wine. Should you take a bottle of wine when invited to dinner? Should a host or hostess be expected to open the wine? And what about “re-gifting” wine?
Continue readingMore TagPirates, Rubber Chickens and Spaniards, Oh My!
If ever there was a winery that knows the benefits of social media, and word-of-mouth marketing, it’s Twisted Oak. Owner Jeff “El Jefe” Stai has developed a following on twitter and facebook, and in addition to good wine, is building a brand image full of pirates, fun, frivolity and well, rubber chickens.
Continue readingMore Tag“Bloggerships” Available for Needy Winos!
Winos and twitterati Winebratsf, Sonadora, Catie, Brixchick_liza, DrXeno and WBC King Pin Joel Vincent have set up a WBC Scholarship website and have encouraged anyone who needs a little extra help getting to the WBC09 this July 24-26 to apply.
Continue readingMore TagDecanting: Take Your Wine for a Little Spin
There is a cool little device that could possibly turn your water into wine. Okay, not really. But it will save you the time of decanting — and it really works
Continue readingMore TagAnother Wine Byte 11: Wines with a Tan
I would also assume that back in my grandmother’s day, the winery owner’s wife had pale skin and the people that harvested the grapes were tan. And the depth of one’s tan indicated one’s station in life. The same might be said of wine. While tannins pucker your mouth, and make it feel like all the moisture is being sucked out, they are considered beneficial in wine. Natural tannins like those found in Cabernet Sauvignon indicate potential longevity and ageability.
Continue readingMore TagRestaurant Review: Pope’s Pairings Protect Plonk
The brainchild of Chef Monica Pope t’afia promises “coastal Mediterranean cuisine inspired by local ingredients.” Let me just summarize up front by saying the decor is trendy cafeteria-cool, our waiter was friendly, the food is good, but the place is very loud. Acoustics in t’afia are not conducive to quiet conversation. At least not when sitting on the long communal bench. I could hear the conversations from the tables behind me and beside me, but could not hear my dinner partner sitting across from me.
Continue readingMore TagCan Red Wine Reduce Swine Flu Risk?
The current frenzy over “swine flu” is really getting on my last nerve – especially with the reporting of half-truths and tabloid-like speculation by the media. So imagine my delight when I found an article from last Fall entitled, “Red Wine Chemical Cuts Flu Risk.”
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